Here are a few quick tips to help you beat the bugs and have a great summer!
1. BEAT THE BUGS FROM THE INSIDE OUT
The first step in beating the bugs is using an insect control supplement. These supplements are designed to stop the life cycle of flies, thus reducing the population of house and stable flies in and around your barn. Simplifly is one of my favorite Feed-Thru Fly Control Products that I highly recommend. SimpliFly with LarvaStop is a very palatable pelleted additive. The LarvaStop breaks the life cycle of flies by preventing the formation of fly larvae’s exoskeletons when they molt. It is most effective when feed to ALL horses in the barn/on the property.
- Stop the flies before they start with feed through fly control
- Contains no organophosphates and can be used as part of an integrated pest management program
- Prevents the formation of fly exoskeletons
- For best results provide to all horse on the property and start prior to the fly season
2. SPRAY THE FLIES AWAY
Fly spray is a key component to protecting your horse against flies. There are many different types of sprays on the market to choose from and the fine print on the bottles can be confusing. When choosing the right fly spray for your horse, consider the following label and active ingredient information.
Pyrethrins: Pyrethrins are organic compounds that are derived from chrysanthemum flowers and are biodegradable. They are broken down rapidly by sunlight, so synergists—usually Piperonyl butoxide and/or Butoxypolypropylene glycol—are often added to protect and extend the effectiveness of the formula. Pyrethrins act on the nervous systems of insects, which makes it an insecticide. (Plant Based & All Natural)
- Absorbine UltraShield GREEN
- EquiSect
- Flysect Citronella
- Nature’s Defense
Permethrin: Permethrins are synthetic forms of pyrethrins used to control a variety of external parasites, including ticks, lice, gnats, and flies. It is used as an external insecticide – sprays, wipes and spot-on’s that may be applied directly to the animal, or in more concentrated formulations designed as premises sprays. It acts upon the insect’s nervous system but is safe in most mammals. (Cats are a significant exception to this rule. Permethrin is also toxic to birds, fish, and beneficial insects such as honeybees.) Water Based - Daily Protection
- Bronco
- Equi-Spot Spot-On
- Flysect Super C
- Flysect Super 7
- Mosquito Halt
- Permethrin 10 Concentrate and Pour-On
- Repel-X
- Wipe
Pyrethroids: Pyrethroids are also synthetic forms of pyrethrins. The most common pyrethroids are permethrin, cypermethrin and resmethrin. Pyrethroids are not as easily broken down by sunlight, so they can remain effective for several days. Both pyrethrins and pyrethroids have a long track record for effectiveness and animal safety on horses and dogs. (Oil Based - Long Lasting & Sweat Resistant)
- Absorbine UltraShield
- Endure
- Pyranha
- Tri-Tec 14
During fly season another great line of defense in fly protection is using a mask, fly sheet and fly boots. This gives your horse a physical barrier against biting pests. They are not just great for protection from bugs, but many of these products are great for blocking the sun as well as the UV rays.
- Fly masks come in many styles – with or without ears and/or with or without nose pieces
- Fly sheets also come in many styles as well as different types of materials
- Fly boots are light-weight and help from keeping a horse from stomping the hard ground
